• Works begin on 20 March for ten weeks
• Narrow lines with footway closures and diversions

A major footway and crossing improvements project on the A96 through Keith is set to begin on Monday 20 March for ten weeks.

On behalf of Transport Scotland, BEAR Scotland teams will carry out improvements to crossing points in Keith, between Regent Square and the petrol station at the west end of Regent Street. In addition to the crossing improvements, footway resurfacing works will also take place. The project will provide safer crossings and a smoother footway for pedestrians and other non-motorised users.

Works will take place between 9.30am and 3.30pm each day.

Narrow lanes will be in operation during working hours to ensure the safety of roadworkers, motorists and pedestrians. Due to the nature of the works, there may be instances where traffic lights are required. Sections of the footway will be also closed during the works, with signed diversions in place to guide pedestrians safely around the worksite.

Access to local businesses and all other properties will be maintained at all times.

Consultation has taken place with stakeholders in advance of the improvements to make them aware of the traffic management arrangements.

Commenting on the improvements, Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland’s North West Representative, said: “This project forms part of a wider programme of ongoing footway improvements being carried out in Keith and this investment from Transport Scotland will help address defects and reduce the need for ongoing maintenance of the footways. The project will also improve the footway, creating a smoother and safer surface for pedestrians and other non-motorised-users.

“Traffic management is essential to ensure the safety of both roadworkers, pedestrians and motorists. Regrettably there will be some delays, but our teams will do all they can to complete the scheme as safely and quickly as possible, and we thank the local community and road users for their patience in advance while we complete this project. We have also planned for traffic management to be removed outside working hours where possible to help minimise disruption.

We encourage motorists to plan ahead before setting out by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up-to-date travel information.”

Real time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland on www.traffic.gov.scot or Twitter @trafficscotland.